It has been incredible to see so many community members supporting one another around Coronado through the Covid-19 pandemic. As we move toward more social distancing, keep in mind that we NEED connection and community. Are you staying connected? If not, today is the day to reach out and connect with someone. If you already feel very connected, please call at least one person today to check on them. They may be feeling lonely or in need but hesitant to ask. Lots of people are offering to help others in our community, but if you don’t personally know them, one may be wary to accept that help. So make that personal phone call today.

An article in Psychology Today, Connect To Thrive, by Emma Seppala explains that “Social connection strengthens our immune system (research by Steve Cole shows that genes impacted by social connection also code for immune function and inflammation), helps us recover from disease faster, and may even lengthen our life. People who feel more connected to others have lower rates of anxiety and depression. Moreover, studies show they also have higher self-esteem, are more empathic to others, more trusting and cooperative and, as a consequence, others are more open to trusting and cooperating with them. Social connectedness therefore generates a positive feedback loop of social, emotional and physical well-being.”

In fact, Coronado SAFE’s mantra right now is Community, Connection, Coaching & Counseling. By teaching tools that help people connect with one another our community is stronger. SAFE’s office is currently “open” with phone and video counseling for those in need while honoring the social distancing for the sake of immune suppressed and our health care system. Additionally, SAFE continues to work with its SAFE Coalition members (Coronado Police Department, Sharp Coronado Hospital, CUSD and others) to find creative and innovative ways to support the community during these times. Other group setting programs are currently on hold.

What are you doing to stay connected?

Phone Calls – Sometimes the good old fashion simple phone call is the best

Video Interface – We have ample ways to stay connected to others through Skype, FaceTime, Facebook live, Zoom, etc. Schedule bedtime stories with grandparents, coffee time, kids play dates, or just time to chat with friends.

Text Messaging - Though it does not have the same effect it does keep us in communication. Text often! Check in on people. Those close to you and those you haven’t talked with in years. Think about those by themselves and reach out.

Write a letter/ card - Everyone loves getting something personal in the mail or through email. In a time like this we need to share our thoughts and feelings with others. There are tons of websites to help with virtual cards and anyone can send an email or direct message through Twitter, Facebook, Snap Chat or other social media form.

Virtual Book Club/ Film Study - Create a virtual book club or film review group to meet regularly to talk and socialize. It gives you a good reason to finish that book or movie you have been wanting to watch.

Call a friend, neighbor or loved one today. Need support or resources check out SAFE’s website at CoronadoSAFE.org; email info@CoroandoSAFE.org, call 619-522-6884, or Counseling line 619-478-4066.